Diane Goode

Adorable babies are lovingly pictured in appealing illustrations and rhyming text. There is a reassuring tone from a “Baby Face” to the “Baby Bed.” Even children who are no longer babies will enjoy the soothing language and images.

Trace the stories of heroic, patriotic women such as Abigail Adams, Martha Washington, Phillis Wheatley, Mercy Otis Warren, Sarah Livingston Jay, and others. Details are gleaned from their letters, private journals, lists, and ledgers. The bravery of these women’s courageous acts contributed to the founding of America and spurred the founding fathers to make this a country that “remembered the ladies.”

Journals, letters and other primary sources were used to introduce “a few of the women who helped… make [the United States] a nation where everyone could pursue the happiness promised when America declared independence…” Line and wash illustrations enhance the brief entries of these intriguing but largely unknown women.

Every once in awhile, Grandma shares the story of her mother’s journey to America as a young girl. Grandma doesn’t leave anything out, from the moment her mother boards the ship with her older brother to the moment the children are reunited with their parents. Levinson offers a touching portrayal of the immigrant experience that children will relate to, complemented by Goode’s detailed and often humorous illustrations.